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"We hadn't received the response from the high school students that we had hoped for but we have seen a large a response from the homeschool community," said Graves. "Economically it wasn't feasible so we widened the audience to make it possible. I am a strong believer in this program and so are many others - we want to see it be successful. We aren't giving up just yet."
The city's community development department, in partnership with the Union Area Chamber of Commerce, and University of Missouri Extension office organized last year's program that offered adult members of the community the opportunity to learn more about the community.
Next year's program, offered to UHS and homeschool students, will follow a similar plan.
Following are other goals of Leadership Youth Union:
* Develop leadership skills;
* Participate in a challenge course including high ropes;
* Gain knowledge about the city, county and state government;v * Tour local businesses and industries;
* Build relationships with community and business leaders; and
* Enhance college and scholarship applications.
The cost of the program is $60 per student which will cover all class materials, a T-shirt, the Mo-Val course, lunches and all other items.
Information is available at the UHS office or by contacting the city economic development department at 636-583-3600, or by e-mail at leadership@unionmissouri.org; or contacting the Chamber of Commerce at 636-583-8979.
Local businesses can sponsor the program through a donation. Sponsors will have the name of their businesses on T-shirts and fliers. Those who donate $100 or more will be given 15 minutes before a session to speak to participants.
Last Year's Session
The first session of the Leadership class explored education in Union, including the R-XI school district, East Central College and Immaculate Conception Grade School.
The second session focused on health care and social services in Union. The class toured the Franklin County Health Department, Union ambulance, fire and police stations, and the County Seat Senior Center.
The third session included tours of a local industry. The group toured the Children's Factory, Transactions Technologies, Pharma Tech and Rexam PLC. There also was a presentation on the Union Development Corporation.
The fourth session looked into the city's infrastructure needs and how the city is financing them, including wastewater treatment upgrades and the Highway 50 widening project. The group toured the city treatment plant and waterworks, and attended a board of aldermen meeting.
